Coca-Cola recalls drinks in several European countries over chlorate concerns

Coca-Cola recalls drinks due to high chlorate levels, though risks to consumers are low.

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Coca-Cola has initiated a recall of certain drinks across several European countries due to safety concerns involving higher-than-acceptable levels of chlorate, a chemical byproduct.

The recall affects products in Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, with a small number of products also shipped to the UK, where they have already been sold.

The affected drinks include popular Coca-Cola brands such as Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico, and Minute Maid. Chlorate can form when chlorine-based disinfectants are used in water treatment and food processing.

However, Coca-Cola has emphasized that independent expert analysis indicates the risk to consumers is very low. No consumer complaints have been reported in the UK, and the company is working closely with authorities to resolve the issue.

The recalled products include specific cans of Appletiser, Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, and Sprite Zero, with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE, which can be found at the base of the cans.

Health experts, like Caron Grazette, a nutritionist, have raised concerns about the potential risks of ingesting chemicals such as chlorate, which is also used in fireworks and disinfectants.

High levels of chlorate can lead to health issues such as thyroid problems, especially in children and infants, and symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and impaired oxygen absorption.

The issue was discovered during routine testing at Coca-Cola’s production facility in Ghent, Belgium. While the majority of unsold affected products have been removed from shelves, the company is continuing to withdraw the remaining stock.

Coca-Cola has reiterated that the safety and quality of its products remain a top priority. The UK’s Food Standards Agency is also investigating the matter, with officials assuring the public that any unsafe products will be promptly removed from circulation.